Mazda MX-5 Performance

The new Mazda MX-5, commonly known as the Miata, is getting a performance boost for the 2019 model year — and we can’t wait to show it off here at Sierra Mazda. The Mazda MX-5 performance will now offer 181 horsepower, which is a 17 percent increase from the previous model year. The red line will also increase, moving from 6,800 to 7,500 rpm.

According to The Drive, the engine of the MX-5 will be slightly lighter, cutting some of the weight from the pistons and connecting rods. Mazda’s engineers have specially tuned the crankshaft and improved the engine’s airflow and fuel flow. The MX-5 will also have a larger exhaust valve and a new manifold, improving performance overall.

A handful of technical changes are being made for 2019 to accommodate the MX-5’s added power. For instance, a low-inertia dual-mass flywheel will absorb noise and vibrations caused by the increase in power, while a new muffler will help eliminate high-frequency noises from the Miata’s higher redline.

A telescoping steering wheel has been added to the 2019 model as a way to help drivers handle the MX-5’s upgraded performance. To complement the Miata’s performance improvements, new safety features and new colors are coming, too.

Award Winning.

Earlier this year, the Mazda Vision Coupe won the “Concept Car Design of the Year” title at the 11th Car Design Night held during the Geneva Motor Show. This was no surprise, as the Mazda Vision Coupe had already earned the attention and praise of critics when it was named the Most Beautiful Concept Car of the Year at the Paris Motor Show.

So how was the Vision Coupe selected as the winner? Each year, 18 judges come together on behalf of Car Design News to study new concept cars. Each judge casts a vote for their favorite model to select the winner. Some of these esteemed judges include design directors at global automakers, meaning the Mazda Vision Coupe has even earned the praises of the designers of some of its direct competitors.

“[…] we are delighted once again to have Vision Coupe recognized with a global design award,” said Ikuo Maeda, Mazda’s managing executive officer in charge of design and brand style. “And it’s truly an honor to have this model, which aims to express the essence of Japanese aesthetics, applauded by some of the world’s top car designers.”

The Future is Coming soon.

While the Mazda Vision Coupe will not be produced as an actual model, it will influence the design direction of future Mazdas, including 2019 models that will soon be available at dealerships like Sierra Mazda in Ottawa, IL.

It’s Time To Feel Alive.

Mazda’s new Feel Alive ad encourages viewers to pursue their dreams and lift themselves to new heights — just like the automaker pushes itself to do with each and every vehicle it brings to the market.

The minute-long “Feel Alive” spot first aired during April’s NCAA basketball championship game. It presents a series of inspiring, emotionally charged moments where people pursue their dreams.

“Do your thing. Take that step. Flee that nest,” the narrator urges as a girl in a wheelchair ventures onto the dance floor, a diver swims with whales, a boxer pushes herself to excel, and a couple kisses on a rooftop.

Intercut with these moments are three Mazda cars, including the sleek next-generation Vision Coupe, the refreshed Mazda6 sedan, and the sporty 2018 MX-5 Miata.

“Be extraordinary. Turn off the highway — and soar. Spread your wings,” says the narrator as the Miata’s driver stands and spreads his arms in an approximation of the Mazda logo.

With every vehicle, Mazda’s designers and engineers demonstrate their commitment to delivering innovative technology and an extraordinary driving experience. In “Feel Alive,” Mazda takes this commitment one step further, inspiring viewers to chase their dreams and seek out extraordinary experiences in all aspects of life.

Stop by Sierra Mazda, we are proudly serving the Ottawa, IL area with great customer service and new cars!

The Mazda SKYACTIV® engine lineup is considered one of the most fuel-efficient in the industry — and it’s about to get even better.

Coming Soon.

Next year, the Japanese carmaker is introducing the newest generation of SKYACTIV® engine, called the Spark Controlled Compression Ignition SKYACTIV®-X. This engine is set to have well-to-wheel emissions lower than that of existing electric vehicles, according to the manufacturer’s estimate.

If this is the case, then, compared to the CO2 used when producing electricity for EVs, the Mazda SKYACTIV-X engine will produce less burning fossil fuel. Mazda reported that a mid-sized electric car uses 20 kWh of electricity per 100 km. To produce the electricity to power this vehicle, burning coal would produce 200g/km CO2 emissions, while burning petroleum would produce 156 g/km.

“With two-thirds of global electricity production currently relying on the use of fossil fuels, Mazda believes regulations placing the absolute emissions of an EV (electric vehicle) at zero to be disingenuous,” says Mazda.

Improvements.

With a 10% improvement in the current SKYACTIV-G engine, the combustion units could be considered equal to electric cars when it comes to emissions.

Along with the next-generation SKYACTIV-X engine, Mazda will also offer a range of electric vehicles and hybrids. An electric vehicle will arrive in showrooms like Sierra Mazda’s in 2019, while a plug-in hybrid will debut in 2025.

The Windy City

Mazda has always considered Chicago to be the Mazda MX-5 Miata’s second home not only because it has been the site of a number of MX-5 “firsts,” but because it was where this vehicle made its world debut back in 1989. Now, the Windy City has become the location for Mazda’s newest announcement — the 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF pricing and packaging.

The MX-5 Miata RF, which stands for retractable fastback, will be entering its second model year with a number of upgrades. This award-winning vehicle will have a starting price tag of $31,910. It will feature standard Advanced Keyless Entry on all MX-5 models, along with standard heated cloth sport seats in the base Club trim. The Club trim’s Brembo/BSS Package will also include new color options and heated leather-trimmed seats.

For the Club and Grand Touring trim levels, you will see some top-notch standard tech, such as a Bose® nine-speaker audio system with AudioPilot®, a MAZDA CONNECT™ infotainment system, and Bluetooth® connectivity. The more luxurious Grand Touring models will also find standard rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic climate control, navigation, and safety technologies such as the Lane Departure Warning System and High Beam Control.

The 2018 Mazda MX-5 is available now at Sierra Mazda; learn how much it would be to take this nice little car home today.

Future Project.

It looks like Mazda’s popular rotary engine will come back to the industry. The Japanese automaker recently announced that it is joining forces with Toyota-Mazda partnership to develop a range-extending rotary engine for use in a shared future project — the e-Palette Concept.

This concept, which Toyota revealed earlier this year at the 2018 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, is a battery-electric vehicle prototype that drives itself. With Mazda’s rotary engine, Toyota hopes to extend the e-Palette’s range.

More Information To Come.

There is little information out there about Mazda’s role in this Toyota-Mazda partnership, but Toyota’s presentation makes it seem as if this vehicle could be the answer to a lot of transportation needs. It will have an open interior design layout, which means it can be outfitted with an interior that suits the user’s needs, no matter what they are. According to Toyota, the e-Palette Concept will come in three sizes, so consumers can have the right vehicle for them in every way.

Along with Mazda, Toyota is also planning on partnering with Amazon, DiDi, Pizza Hut, and Uber. Each partner will utilize this technology in specific ways to enhance their respective industries. Toyota is predicting that this concept will actually be out on the road in various regions in the early 2020s, which means you could see it in Sierra Mazda showrooms in the next few years.

Making A Name.

The 2018 Mazda CX-5 is making quite a name for itself thanks to its stunning exterior design and excellent handling and performance. The CX-5 is great for drivers who want a vehicle that will stand apart on the road. Yet this charming model comes with more than just good looks — it has a truly refined chassis. For a driving experience like never before, check out the new CX-5.

According to Car and Driver, which gave the CX-5 a five-star rating, this model is the best-driving compact crossover on the road. What exactly does it mean to be the “best-driving” compact crossover? In particular, the editors and experts at Car and Driver noted that the tuned chassis provides responsive steering, the engine is powerful yet efficient, and the six-speed transmission is smooth. The 2018 CX-5 handling is simply unparalleled.

Enjoyable ride.

“Distinctive styling and engaging driving dynamics separate the CX-5 from the competition,” writes Eric Stafford of Car and Driver. “The pièce de résistance is a phenomenal chassis that combines precise steering with refined road manners.” In other words, the CX-5 is one of the few models on the market that is simply enjoyable to drive, yet it also has the latest amenities and intelligent engine options.

We encourage you to test drive the latest Mazda CX-5 at Sierra Mazda. We can tell you all about the tuned chassis, the intelligent adaptive cruise control system, or the soft leather trim, but it’s more efficient to see what makes the CX-5 so special by driving it in person.

Give back in a fun way by purchasing a $50 ticket to this charming evening out held at the Knights of Columbus; all proceeds go to youth programs at the Warren-Sharpe Community Center. The soiree features a live performance by the Euphony Band, an onsite bar, and complimentary snacks.

Looking to get crafty this holiday season? Then you need to attend this creative event at St. Mary Immaculate Parish and make your own custom Christmas art on a piece of wood. Beverages will be provided, and all guests are encouraged to bring a snack to share.

Open to children, ages two and up, this event inspires little ones to create and decorate holiday ornaments and cards. While the young artists are busy their parents and caregivers can enter a raffle and shop for everyone on their Christmas lists at any (or all) of the 15 nearby businesses.

There are a few ticket options for this one — you can attend both dinner and party, or opt for one or the other. If you choose to go for the whole package, this event is a five-course meal with beer and wine pairing, plus an extravagant New Year’s Eve party.

These local Ottawa events are sure to make December a month full of holiday cheer!

The Mazda CX-5 is a well-known crossover. It’s obvious as to why. With its distinctive styling and impressive versatility, it’s hard to beat. It’s going to be even harder to beat now, since the second generation CX-5 is adding a diesel engine.

This engine shouldn’t come as much of a surprise to Mazda lovers, since Mazda prioritizes innovation. The new CX-5 will keep its previous engine—a 2.5-liter direct-injection gas engine—but it’s also adding a 2.2-liter diesel as an option.

Diesel engines have risen in popularity recently due to their increased efficiency. While the word “diesel” sounds hefty, diesel engines actually use less fuel. You can expect the new CX-5’s diesel engine to have an even higher fuel rating than the current CX-5’s 31 highway mpg.*

Diesel engines are also resilient—they tend to last twice as long as gasoline engines. Plus, you don’t have to worry as much about your engine overheating since diesel engines burn fuel more efficiently and therefore, don’t heat up as intensely while operating.

All CX-5 engines, diesel or otherwise, will come equipped with the new SKYACTIV® technology. This technology enhances the functioning of your engine, transmission and suspension to give you more control and stability on the road.

No matter which engine option you choose, the new Mazda CX-5 is sure to impress you. Stop by Sierra Mazda for a test drive.

The Mazda3 4-Door and 5-Door compact cars are efficient, versatile and work just as well for weekend getaways as for daily commutes. Pack your friends and family into your Mazda3 from Sierra Mazda and head out to one of these upcoming Ottawa, Illinois events.

Oktoberfest

On Sept. 22-24 invite your friends to carpool in your Mazda3 4-Door over to the annual Ottawa Oktoberfest. You’ll have a grand time getting in the German spirit, snacking on brats, tasting various beers, and dancing to live music.

Ottawa Annual Scarecrow Fest

This yearly festival is the perfect way for you and your family to celebrate the fall season. Gather in downtown Ottawa on Sept.30 for kid-friendly fun like bouncy houses, face painting, and more.

28th Pumpkin Pie Ride

On Oct. 1 make some use of all the cargo space in your Mazda3 5-Door by loading up your bicycle into it for the annual Pumpkin Pie Ride. The ride includes fresh-baked cookies at every rest stop and pumpkin pie at the end. The whole family is welcome!

Fall Color Weekend

The Mazda3 can be the perfect little car for a ride to a trailhead. Pack your snacks and hiking boots and meet with the Starved Rock guides at Starved Rock State Park to take a colorful and education hike in the fall foliage.

Haunted Halloween Night Hikes

If you’re looking for something spookier, this Oct. 28 hike will fit the bill. Hear spooky ghost stories on your guided hike and stay afterward for some great kid-friendly crafts. This program is free and an excellent substitute for or addition to trick-or-treating!